Klitschko: There is a Big Ticket Demand For Leapai Bout

By Yuri Tarantin

WBO/IBO/WBA/IBF heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko (61-3, 51KOs) is not overlooking the challenge of mandatory challenger Alex Leapai (30-4-3, 24KOs). The fight is scheduled for April 26th at the Koenig Pilsener Arena in Oberhausen, Germany. Wladimir disputes reports that state there is a lack of interest in the fight. He says more than 7,000 tickets were sold on the first day. The venue holds 12,650.

"I believed that on April 26th I was going to be in the ring against Boytsov - that's what everyone predicted. Actually, I am very surprised that Botsov lost [to Leapai]. But it proves once again that Leapai very strong and a really durable opponent, who already have enough experience. Yes, Alex calls himself an underachiever, but he is not. And he clearly stated his position - he wants to be champion on April 26 in Oberhausen. I do not agree [with those who say there is a lack of interest in the fight]. On Wednesday, at 10am, they started selling tickets for the fight with Leapai and [a few hours later] they already sold 7,500 tickets. The interest in the fight is there - after all, there are a lot of belts at stake," Wladimir said.